Egypt’s ready-made garments sector recorded an 11% year-on-year export rise in January 2026, reaching $299m compared to $270m the previous year, according to the Apparel Export Council of Egypt (AECE).
Egypt’s ready-made garments exports reached $299m in January 2026, up 11% from $270m in January 2025, as reported by the Apparel Export Council of Egypt (AECE). This reflects ongoing momentum in a key industrial sector employing about 1.7 million people and achieving steady annual growth for the third consecutive year. Fadel Marzouk, AECE Chairperson, attributed the rise to strong global demand and enhanced competitiveness of Egyptian garments, alongside efforts to diversify markets and improve performance. Manufacturers are running at full available capacity while adopting higher-quality inputs and sustainable practices, including circular economy principles. Exports to the United States increased 16% to $118m from $102m, and to EU countries rose 26% to $132m from $105m. The sector targets $4.4bn in total exports by end-2026, with 22-25% annual growth over the next five years aiming for $12bn by 2031. The council coordinates with the Ministry of Investment and Foreign Trade, finance, and industry ministries. Marzouk cautioned that Middle East geopolitical tensions may challenge targets, requiring mitigation efforts.